Phnom Penh

Q: What is Phnom Penh best known for?

The capital city of Cambodia is filled with a number of beautiful monuments, temples, pagodas, and markets. These diverse attractions show off how colorful the city is, also including the historic Russian Market and Royal Palace.

Q: When is the best time to visit Phnom Penh?

Peak season is from November to February. It is less busy from March to May, and the rest of the year brings rainy weather. Some popular events and festivals include Khmer New Year, which happens in April, and Bon Om Touk’s water festival in November, which involves boat racing.

Q: Where is the best location for tourists to stay in Phnom Penh?

The top areas for tourists to stay in Phnom Penh would be Sangkat Tonle Basak and Sangkat Boeng Keng Kang Ti Muoy. Sangkat Tonle Basak is a high-end and modern area known for its nightlife establishments, global shopping mall, and upscale establishments and hotels. Sangkat Boeng Keng Kang Ti Muoy, on the other hand, has markets best for souvenir shopping and is also centrally located, as it is close to Wat Langka and the Independence Monument.

Formerly known as Krong Chaktomuk Serimongkul, Phnom Penh has been the nation's capital since the French colonization in the 1800s, which lasted nearly a hundred years. Tourists will notice French influences all around the city, from the landmarks to the local cafés.

Located a couple minutes out of the city is The Killing Fields (Choeung Ek), which serves as a reminder of the country's somber past. Alternatively, tourists can go on a cultural excursion within the city of Phnom Penh to the many temples and palaces such as the Royal Palace and Mekong River!